An internationally competitive research university

Over the next decade, we will raise the level and impact of research and teaching to strengthen the competitiveness of the University of Tartu. Our researchers and teaching staff take an active part in international collaboration, help resolve global and societal problems and shape the trends in research and higher education. To achieve this, we develop modern infrastructure and a strong support system, advocate for academic freedom, and contribute to the future of the European Research and Higher Education Area. In 2035, the University of Tartu will be at the forefront in the Nordic countries in terms of research excellence and impact – we will be an attractive destination for researchers and students from all over the world.

Increasing scientific impact

We promote excellence in research. The academic staff in all our fields of research are internationally recognised. We create a stimulating environment to enhance the stability and sustainability of high-level research groups and support our academic staff in applying for international research grants

International cooperation in research and teaching

We step up international mobility for students and staff. We strengthen our teaching and research cooperation with partner universities to provide a diverse and high-quality international learning and working environment for students and researchers. We develop international digital learning. We foster cooperation with international networks. We follow the principles of responsible internationalisation.

State-of-the-art infrastructure and support services

To enhance international competitiveness and support research and teaching activities, we are developing modern, high-quality infrastructure, support services, and relevant technological solutions and capabilities. By building modern academic and research facilities, we will achieve better integration of research and teaching, interdisciplinary cooperation, and increased international attractiveness.

Development cooperation in research and higher education

In a changing international context, we strengthen partnerships with universities, the integration of which into the European Research and Higher Education Area supports democracy and academic freedom. We offer cooperation opportunities to researchers and students whose academic activities are at risk, and support the free movement of knowledge through joint projects and academic programmes.

Objectives of the area of development in 2026–2028

The strategic plan is implemented through a three-year action plan that defines the objectives of each area of development, the activities required to achieve them, the responsible persons, and the support from the university’s development fund. Below is an outline of what we intend to do over the next three years to enhance our international competitiveness. Read more in the action plan.

  • Research and development funding contributes to achieving the university’s strategic objectives by providing academic staff with a sense of security and freedom to advance their research careers.
  • Research results reach the wider academic community and other stakeholders, thus increasing the impact of research in society.
  • The university has internationally competitive and labour market-oriented non-Estonian-taught (joint) curricula at the first and second levels of study, with at least ten students starting their studies in each curriculum every year. In all four faculties, the university offers non-Estoniantaught online courses that meet the criteria for applying for the e-course quality label.
  • We collaborate with the ENLIGHT network universities in teaching and studies, giving students the opportunity to gain an international learning experience.
  • The university’s international research cooperation has intensified, and the university has become an attractive place to conduct research for international staff holding doctoral degrees.
  • The quality of the university’s support services meets the users’ needs.
  • The university’s infrastructure meets the needs of teaching and research; it is modern, optimal and efficiently managed.
  • Research and data collections are preserved in line with international standards, and their use in both research and teaching has increased.
  • We are a reliable and supportive partner to universities in development cooperation countries and an advocate for European values in these countries.
  • We advocate in Europe for the research and higher education needs of development cooperation countries.

University of Tartu Strategic Plan for 2026–2035